Demotion to a lower league - Fortuna appearance at ease and self-assured - final opportunity for Bochum
Fortuna Düsseldorf is determined to hold onto their chance of making it to the Bundesliga. Although everyone realizes that their 3-0 win over VfL Bochum in the first leg of the relegation match doesn't guarantee them a spot in the top division, coach Daniel Thioune recognizes the power of his team and is ready for any challenge. "The players are so mentally strong. Their energy hasn't run out yet," said the 49-year-old in anticipation of the return game on Monday (8:30 p.m./Sat.1 and Sky) at the EM-Stadion in Düsseldorf.
Thioune is convinced that the game will be another intense match. "The Bochumers are going to give their all, and we're ready for that," he added. He has full faith in his players. "They're always able to adapt quickly," said the coach.
The potential seventh promotion to the Bundesliga could only be jeopardized by Fortuna Düsseldorf themselves. "We've seen countless games turn around from a 0-3 deficit. That's why it's vital to stay focused and tune out the noise," said goalkeeper Florian Kastenmeier, who has guided his team through similar situations this season.
The locations for a possible promotion celebration have already been scouted. After the game, the team plans to throw a party at a large nightclub in Düsseldorf, and the following day they'll assemble on the town hall square. Thioune wants his players to approach the deciding moment with caution and steadiness. "It's crucial to maintain our composure for the entire match," he said.
The Bochumers' promised resistance after their humiliating away loss seemed more like whining than a genuine threat. "If Düsseldorf can score three goals there, why can't we do the same in Düsseldorf?" asked playmaker Kevin Stöger. Defender Keven Schlotterbeck vowed on Thursday night on the pitch, "We're not going down."
Coach Heiko Butscher was still unhappy with the team's performance in the first leg on Sunday. "We attempted to rebuild the team. It's unclear if it was successful," he remarked. He expects a response. The 43-year-old Butscher required his players to show "aggression, intensity, passion, and determination - from the first to the last minute."
However, after the uninspired performance by the Bochumers in front of their home fans, there's little confidence in being able to catch up with the three goals against the formidable Düsseldorf side. It's certain that captain Anthony Losilla, who was initially left on the bench for tactical reasons in the first leg, will return. Goalkeeper Manuel Riemann will not be considered for the return match, and the strong Bernardo is missing due to a yellow card suspension.
A relegation would have significant financial implications for the Bochumers. Over a dozen players would leave, and a new coach would be sought. The sporting leadership of the club with sporting director Marc Lettau and sports business manager Patrick Fabian would also be called into question. "I'm in charge of everything, so it's my obligation," said Fabian after the first leg.
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Source: www.stern.de
